2014 Vella Chapbook Contest Winners and Finalists

January 9, 2015

It took longer than we wanted it to – in part, because of the impressive quality of the 150 entries we received – but we have the results for the 2014 Vella Chapbook Contest.

Because of the number of entries and overall success of Paper Nautilus this past year, we have the resources to support the publication of three manuscripts that we received during our submission period last May through August.

The chapbooks we’ll be publishing from the 2014 contest are:Pictures from the Center of the Universe, by Allie Marini BattsThe Monster in the Mountain, by Johnathan HarperSterling, by Stephanie Dugger

Our finalists – our favorite 10% of the remaining entries – follow below, in no particular order:Whatever Light Used to Be, by Dan HowellWaiting for Pernod, by Mark TerrillPasswords, by Heikki HuotariWildlife, by Monica WendelLiving on Empty, by JoAnn GuernseyOverwintering, by Maggie ClevelandSong and Tornadoes, by Adam TedescoThe Fourth Nest, by Sara Backerwater-bound by Peter Vanderbergfluid., by Tammy Lynne StonerSwans, by Katie BergerUmpteen, by Aaron AnstettNineteen Artifacts, or “Yesterday I Disassembled All My Furniture, So I’m Afraid I Can’t Offer You a Seat,” by Kayla PongracEasing the Tightness of Braids, by Jo-Ann ReidObject of Art, by Kate Schultz

As I have said in previous years’ contests, these decisions were very hard, and seem to get more challenging every year. There were so many other manuscripts worth recognizing – and publishing – and we wish we had the means to support many more than we can. Please know that, even if you manuscript was not selected or mentioned here, it was read with care and the value inherent in your hard work did not go unnoticed.

Thank you to all who entrusted us with your work, and we look forward to 2015’s submissions, and to bringing these three fine collections to you in the months to come.